Dietitian vs Nutritionist - CLIL Polska

Dietitians and nutritionists are often confused, but there are important differences. Dietitians are registered and have legal restrictions, while nutritionists have less regulation. The career outlook for both is positive, with expected growth in jobs. Dietitians need a formal education program, while nutritionists may need some coursework. Dietitians can earn the RD credential, while nutritionists can earn the CNS credential. The average salary for both is $65,620, with the highest-paying industries including pharmaceuticals and scientific research. Distinguishing the Difference Between a Dietitian and a Nutritionist Many people mistakenly use the terms dietitian and nutritionist interchangeably. Although these two professions are undoubtedly related, they maintain distinctive qualities. The biggest difference between dietitians and nutritionists lies in the legal restrictions that each title carries. Only nutritionists that become registered with the Commission on Dietetics Registration CDR, may legally declare themselves as dietitians, or more precisely registered dietitians, RDs. Unlike dietitians, the nutritionist profession is much less protected under the law. In fact, nutritionists that do not intend to use the titles of dietitian or registered dietitians are often free from government regulation. Some states may require nutritionists to obtain an occupational license from a board of nutrition, while other states allow the individuals to practice as nutritionists without any previous education, training or work experience. Dietitians and Nutritionists Career Outlook There is a valid reason why so many healthcare advocates are pursuing careers as dietitians and nutritionists. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates a positive occupational outlook for both professions. In 2012, the government reported the employment of 67,400 dietitians and nutritionists across the country. By 2022, this figure is expected to climb to 81,600. This addition of 14,200 jobs over a 10-year period equates to 21% employment growth change, which is a faster growth rate than the average for all other occupations. Education Difference Between Dietitians and Nutritionists The following bachelor's, B.A. and master's programs offer career-focused instruction delivered by trained nutritionists with experience in the field. Find out more about what each individual course of study offers through the locations below. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, registered dietitians are required to complete a formal education program that results in at least a baccalaureate degree, B.A. This program must be approved by the Dietetics Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics, A.C.E.N.D., and include a practical component performed in a career-related site. In addition, the program must provide coursework that covers subjects in Food Service Systems Management, Food and Nutrition Sciences, Computer Science, Chemistry, Business, Microbiology, Sociology, Biochemistry, Physiology, Economics, Psychology. Although some nutritionists may not need any educational background to practice in their state, they will likely need to complete some formal coursework in nutrition-related subjects to qualify for employment. Nutritionists that seek the Certified Nutrition Specialist CNS credential are required to complete a baccalaureate or advanced nutritionist degree in a nutrition discipline to qualify for the certification examination. Credentials for Dietitians and Nutritionists The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics offers dietitians the opportunity to earn the Registered Dietitian R.D. credential. To become a R.D., dietitians must complete a baccalaureate degree from an A.C.E.N.D.-approved program, complete an A.C.E.N.D.-approved supervised clinical program, successfully pass the CDR registration examination, complete continuing professional education credits needed to maintain registration. The Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists CBNS offers nutritionists the opportunity to earn the Certified Nutrition Specialist CNS credential. To become a CNS nutritionist must complete a master's or doctoral degree in a field-related discipline, complete 1,000 hours of supervised practical experience, successfully pass a CBNS certification examination, complete continuing professional education needed to maintain certification. Salary Expectations for Dietitians and Nutritionists As of May 2021, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reported an average salary of $65,620 for dietitians and nutritionists. The highest-paying industries for dietitians and nutritionists during this time included pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing, merchant wholesales, non-durable goods, home health care services, federal agencies, CDC, FDA, CMS, scientific research and development services.